Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is Optimal Mindset Consulting?In sport and performance, there are physical and mental components. Most of the time, we spend so much time on the physical aspects but leave out the critical component of mental training. Optimal Mindset Consulting specifically focuses on helping one build mental skills and techniques that can improve in many areas. Mental Skills Training (MST) was developed through the field of Sport Psychology and is consistently used by athletes and performers in many different domains. MST can have an impact on consistency within performance and through SMART goal setting. One has the ability to achieve higher levels of performance and build a mindset that can withstand even the most difficult circumstances. Ultimately, by working on your mental game, the consultant helps each client develop consistency within their performance that is helpful and potentially very empowering for the client.Why work with a Mental Skills Coach?My question for you is, why do you train so often on the specific drills and skills day in and day out? You want to improve your abilities and make sure that you are fully prepared to perform at your best on game day. The same can be said for your mental game. Performance, whether it be in sport, acting, music, dancing, school, or any activity related to the performance domain, is directly affected by the mind. Ever felt like you weren't prepared for something, felt extremely nervous during competition, lost motivation, or were simply aware that you had not performed at your best? If so, mental skills coaching can help address sport performance issues that can affect skills in all areas of life. If you decide that mental skills coaching is right for you, you are making a life choice to enhance your mental game by investing in yourself.When Should I work with a Mental Conditioning Consultant?

The most common sign that an athlete needs to work with a mental skills coach is when he or she is unable to perform up to maximum ability level in competition. Many performers notice that they either freeze up during a performance, lose focus, lack goal setting, feel complacent, pressured, or generally overwhelmed. They perform well in practice but are unable to do so during a game, or just simply realize that they need to bring their game to the next level. The performers and coaches may recognize the warning signs which include an inability to deal with the pressures of competition, becoming easily distracted, experiencing difficulty with performance anxiety or fear of failure.

Who can benefit from Mental Skills Training?Everyone. Plain and simple. MST is transferable to all areas of life including goal setting, communication, motivation, positive thinking, cognitive restructuring, staying in the present, and ability to focus. If you play a sport, instrument, perform on stage in any domain (theater, acting, musical performance, dance, etc), MST can help you meet your needs and achieve your goals.

What's the difference between Mental Conditioning and therapy?

The primary goal of Mental Conditioning Coaching and/or sport psychology is to educate athletes on how to become more confident, improve their focus, stay composed under pressure, practice more efficiently, increase motivation, develop better pre-performance routines, as well as overcoming mental barriers that interfere with an athlete, performer, or exerciser reaching their peak performance. The main difference between a Mental Conditioning Coach and a therapist is that Mental Conditioning Coaches work with athletes, performers, and exercisers on performance enhancement and not personal challenges (e.g. working through a divorce, coping with an addictive behavior, etc.) or abnormal behavior (e.g. schizophrenia). However, many of the skills that are taught in Mental Conditioning are also helpful in most areas of life.Is Mental Skills Training used for beginners and experts?Mental Skills Training can be useful to any level of performer. Each consultation is focused on helping the athlete or performer reach their specific goals. No matter what level of performer you are, your goals will do the talking for you. Think to yourself about what goals you would like to achieve today, tomorrow, or months in the future. Now imagine having somebody that is completely dedicated to helping you achieve those goals, building the mental skills that can help you be that much stronger, focused and confident. Therefore, MST can clearly be utilized at any stage and any level of performance.How and where do you conduct the sessions?Each session takes place either in-person, over the phone, or via Skype video chat. I am unique because I will observe your performance on site. This depends on the feasibility of travel for both the client and myself. If we meet in person, we will discuss where it is most convenient to meet during the free 30 minute consultation. Each of the following sessions typically lasts 50-60 minutes in length. In the first session, we will discuss your history, what you have been currently experiencing, and your reasons for contacting a Mental Skills Coach. I will then determine which skills we will work on to best meet your individual needs and accomplish your performance goals by working together on a weekly basis.What will we work on?The answer to this question truly depends on the client. Our sessions are completely individualized, meaning they are built specifically for you, with only your needs in mind, assisted by our discussions and the results of your assessments. Everything that we will focus on is aimed at getting you to where you want to be in your sport. Some of the topics that I have worked on with athletes include: confidence building, routine implementation, increasing preparation, goal-setting, motivation, imagery techniques, mindfulness, cognitive restructuring, tools for managing performance anxiety, communication, and dealing with team or group issues. Throughout our work, I will consistently assign you homework to complete that will help you develop consistency and focus improving your mental game for performance. Which program is best for me?Contact Maxtoday to get your free 30 minute consultation and determine which option is best for you to build your mental game and achieve your goals!